Jose Aldo didn’t score a stoppage win reminiscent of his WEC days like he was planning, but the Brazilian star did work his way to an impressive victory over Frankie Edgar at UFC 200.

Leading up to Saturday’s card, the former featherweight champ relayed that fans were going to see an aggressive Aldo versus Edgar, similar to the fighter that ruled the WEC several years ago. Although Aldo didn’t come out guns blazing, he masterfully countered Edgar with jabs and a right straight throughout the bout. He also thwarted multiple takedown attempts from the dynamic fighter.

Well, clearly Dominick Cruz was impressed with what he saw, as he had this to say during the post-fight show on FOX Sports 1 (quote via FOX Sports press release):

“His counter shots were on point. He was bigger and stronger. The balance, the size and the hips which comes from the judo. It kept Frankie from taking him down. This was one of the best performances Jose’s had in a long time. He’s ready for the next fight against McGregor.”

Now sure, Aldo may have played it safe, particularly in the last round, but it’s important to remember how ridiculously good of a fighter Edgar is. This is a guy who has cruised through the opposition, since Aldo decisioned him in 2013. A man who took out Chad Mendes in the opening round…

And, last night’s bout marked the first time Aldo had fought since he was bombed out by Conor McGregor in December. So, all things considered, it was a very, very solid scrap for the vaunted fighter.